The purpose of this inaugural UDL International Conference is create an opportunity for those at all stages of their UDL journey to come together and share their learning.  We invite those using UDL in their practice, researchers, and experts across a variety of educational and inclusion settings to facilitate workshops where we can further develop our knowledge, understanding and practice of UDL.

This year’s symposium will be an in-person event, hosted by  Maynooth University on Thursday June 8 and Friday June 9 2023. 

Universal Design for Learning National Conference
Hosted by ATU in collaboration with MTU

DATE: Thursday, 1st June 2023
LOCATION: Hume Hall, ATU Sligo

Climbing the UDL Ladder: Building a Culture of Inclusion in Higher Education: “Overcoming Obstacles to Enhance and Sustain UDL Collaboration in Further and Higher Education”

The conference not only explores a whole Institute approach to UDL but draws on learning and reflection from the HEA Path 4 Phase 1 Project in which both Universities partnered on a work package considering leadership approaches to supporting UD.

With increased evidence available on the effectiveness of UDL creating a more inclusive environment across classrooms in Further & Higher Education, this year we explore UDL from three key perspectives: Leaders, academics, and student services.

Conference Details

Conference Themes:

I. UDL in Leadership: Opportunities and challenges in supporting sustainable inclusive learning in further and higher education.

Presenters will guide conference participants through an examination of development processes (be it evidenced or aspirational) recognising the importance of supports for programme teams when designing programmes of study that considers the variability of the student body. By promoting the empowerment of staff and learners, educational leaders can build cohesive and resilient learning environments that support sustainable inclusion.

II. Furthering UDL in the classroom: An academic perspective on overcoming obstacles.

Presentations will address alternative pathways to success which remove potential barriers making learning goals attainable. This discourse will consider a positive learning environment with flexibility built from the onset be it based in evidence or recommended, ensuring that flexibility, accessibility and learner voice and choice are built into all approaches to teaching and learning.

III. Empowering the inclusive student experience: Student Services approaches.

Presentations will showcase the promotion of removing barriers to education by student support services who are key players in this process. These presentations address a whole systems educational design as a driver in relation to student wellbeing. Innovative approaches to student support are most welcomed.